Community directory

Ashridge Estate. National Trust (Berkhamsted)

This large and varied estate runs across the borders of Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, along the main ridge of the Chiltern Hills.

There are woodlands, commons and chalk downland, supporting a rich variety of wildlife and offering splendid walks through outstanding scenery.

The focal point of the area is the Monument, erected in 1832 to the Duke of Bridgwater. There are also splendid views from Ivinghoe Beacon, accessible from Steps Hill.

The estate is open all year, the monument and the visitor centre, which includes a shop, are open from the middle of march to the middle of December. There is also full educational programme and study base.

Riding permits are available from the riding warden
(01442 842716) and there are cycle racks and a cyclists' guide at the visitor centre.

* Opening Hours:

Visitor centre:
- 14th March to 20th December 2009, daily 10.00pm-5.00pm (or dusk if earlier).

Monument:
- 14th March to 1st November 2009 12.00pm-4.30pm;
- Weekends and Bank Holidays 12.00pm-5.00pm (last admission 4.30pm.

* Directions:
Road: Between Northchurch and Ringshall just off B4506.
Bus: telephone National Traveline 0871 200 22 33 (calls charged at national rates).
Rail: Tring 2 miles, Berkhamsted 4 miles to Monument.

* Accessibility:
Parking near visitor centre. Monument area and visitor centre are wheelchair accessible. Self-drive powered vehicles and manual wheelchair are available from visitor centre April to end October, 2.00pm-5.00pm; booking advisable. Routes with fine views have been installed.

* Catering Facilities:
Tea Room at visitor centre, daily 10.00pm-5.00pm or dusk if earlier.

* Parent organisation:
National Trust. Thames and Solent Region.

* Affiliated organisations:
Friends Of Ashridge.

Registered charity number 205846